Pastor's Article 09-06-26

The Cost of Fun
Everything I live for has cost me something: time, money, effort, and sacrifice. Hunting season is just around the corner, and I have been putting in the work to prepare the land, check the stands, plant food plots, and develop a plan that will increase my chances for a good season. Lately, I have been thinking about how much time and money I have spent over the years on this hobby I love. I would like to think hunting has helped me save money on meat, but if I calculated the true cost per pound of venison, I would probably be embarrassed by the total.
The Cost of Family
Then I think about my family. Over the years, I have spent a great deal on my children, my grandchildren, and my wife. When you consider all the money, time, and effort that go into caring for a family, being a family man is costly.
I do not say that with regret. I say it because love gives. The things we truly live for always cost us something. I would not trade the money, time, or effort I have given for the blessing of being there for my family. They are worth it all, and I am sure you feel the same way. The truth is simple: love requires deep sacrifice.
The Cost of Faith
What about your faith? Has your walk with Jesus been costly? Has it required sacrifice? I have given time, money, effort, and at times I have even endured suffering because of my commitment to Christ. Yet, it has been worth it all—and the best is still to come.
It would seem strange to sacrifice for hobbies and family, but not for the Lord. Jesus told us that following Him would be costly. He warned that we would face hatred, persecution, and hardship in this world. But He also told us to take heart, because He has overcome the world.

• What has your faith in Jesus Christ cost you?
• Are you willing to sacrifice for Him?
• Will you take up your cross and follow the One who sacrificed for you?

Our hope is this: the cost of following Christ will never compare to the blessing that is to come.
Pastor
Rev. Wayne Marcus